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Mendocino National Forest Hiking Trails

Thomes Gorge Trail

Thomes Gorge Trail is located near Paskenta and includes a river along the way. This is a great trail for hiking and is easy to follow. During the right time of year, you will enjoy a vast array of wildflowers and maybe even spot some wildlife.

Length: 10.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Travelers Home Trail

The Travelers Home Trail gets a moderate amount of traffic. It is located near Covelo and features a gorgeous waterfall. This is the perfect trail to hike in and to go fishing. You can also bring your dog along.

Length: 9.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Bloody Rock Trail

The Bloody Rock Trail is located near Elk Creek, California, named for a battle in which white settlers surrounded and massacred 65 Yuki Indians. It features a river along the trail and can be hiked by any skill level. This is the perfect trail for a nice day hike.

Length: 4.8 miles

Intensity: Easy
Mount Linn Loop Trail

The Mount Linn Loop trail is a little-known area near Red Bluff. This trail takes you past a lake and is ideal for hiking and fishing. This area is a richly forested area with chances to see deer, squirrels, or other animals.

Length: 6.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Red Mountain Trail

The Red Mountain trail is an in-and-back hike located near Orland. It is a difficult hike but a fantastic opportunity to see plenty of wildlife. It is a good idea to do this hike early in the day before the heat starts to pick up. You must park on the edge of the road, so be careful to get your car all the way off the road.

Length: 4.6 miles

Intensity: Hard

Activities in Mendocino National Forest

Identifying Flora and Fauna

Nature watching is probably the most popular reason visitors come to this forest. There are many native animals to discover as well as a diversity of plant species. This huge area of rugged northwestern California forest is teeming with life. If you enjoy flora and fauna, you will be able to identify tule elk, the largest land mammals native to California. You can also enjoy old growth fir, pine, and Pacific madrone.

Fishing

If fishing is what you enjoy, there are campgrounds positioned all through the park where you can enjoy lake, pond, stream, or river fishing. You will find rainbow trout and steelhead.

Geocaching

Not only is this park a spectacular spot to explore, but you can also do some geocaching while you are there and find a few little treasures.

Stargazing

The views and overlooks are also breathtaking. When the sun goes down, and the clouds have cleared, look up and check out the stars away from the city lights.

How to get to Mendocino National Forest

Address: 825 N. Humboldt Avenue, Willows, CA 95988

Fee: Entry fee $0

Mendocino National Forest is a treasure of Northern California. This forest is more remote than many in the state, making it less crowded and developed. It is situated between a huge agricultural area along Interstate 5, where a lot of almonds and other produce grow, and the redwood area along the coast. At over 900,000 acres, this national forest offers plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy with hiking, camping, and exploring. Since it is such a vast area, traveling by RV means you cover many areas without having to focus on finding reservations in this remote wilderness full of fun.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mendocino National Forest

What is the closest town to Mendocino National Forest ?

Willows is one of the closest towns to Mendocino National Forest. Red Bluff and Redding are also nearby towns where travelers can restock, grab a bite to eat, or camp for a few days.

Is there a fee to get into Mendocino National Forest ?

There is not a fee to get into Mendocino National Forest. However, there are permits required for various activities. Some permits you may need include a campfire permit, a firewood permit, or a special use permit.

Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Mendocino National Forest ?

Yes, there are limits to how long you can camp in Mendocino National Forest. Dispersed campers can camp in the same location for 14 days within a 30-day period. Developed campgrounds indicate their own limits for campers.

Is Mendocino National Forest open all year round?

Yes, Mendocino National Forest is open year-round. Parts of the forest may, however, be closed for maintenance or for fires or other emergencies.

What is the best time to visit Mendocino National Forest ?

Winter is a great time to visit Mendocino National Forest. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, and November to April is whale-watching season.

Mendocino National Forest Guide

RV Rentals Near Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest Hiking Trails

Thomes Gorge Trail

Travelers Home Trail

Bloody Rock Trail

Mount Linn Loop Trail

Red Mountain Trail